To find the universal elements enough; to find the air and the water exhilarating; to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter; to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring - these are some of the rewards of the simple life.
- John Burroughs, Leaf and Tendril

The Taoist way teaches to remain in harmony and to see things in simplicity by comparing or even being in one with nature — the truest simplicity in life. By today’s standard of living this goal seems to be near impossible. Yet, the Tao simply says to “be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.”
- Stephen Mitchell, The Tao Te Ching

There is great freedom in simplicity of living, and after I began to feel this, I found harmony in my life between inner and outer well-being.
      - Peace Pilgrim, Her Life and Work in Her Own Words

The concept of the value of simple pleasure runs through the entire tradition of thinking about soul. 
- Thomas Moore, Care Of The Soul

Simplicity in all things is the secret of the wilderness and one of its most valuable lessons.  It is what we leave behind that is important.  I think the matter of simplicity goes further than just food, equipment, and unnecessary gadgets; it goes into the matter of thoughts and objectives as well.  When in the wilds, we must not carry our problems with us or the joy is lost.  Never indulge in arguments or bitter recriminations; never criticize, but be of good cheer. . . Thoreau, I know, would have agreed. . . I can imagine him moving around the old Wilderness Outfitters warehouse with his strange and almost enigmatic smile, patting the guides on the shoulder and whispering, "Simplify -- simplify -- simplify."
     - Reflections From The North Country by Sigurd F. Olson

Journal Notes

To what extent is your life simple?  Simplicity allows you to deal in truth.  Simplicity allows you to be in touch with yourself. The fewer the distractions in your life, the more profound your relationship with your deeper levels of consciousness.  Simplicity allows you independence from the group.  Simplicity allows you the courage of conviction. 

Simplicity allows you to live life on your own terms.

The soul is simple; it doesn’t relate to complicated. It needs simple pleasures. The spiritual life has always been the simple life, the reflective life.  Wisdom asks for simplicity -- the elimination of unnecessary distraction, detail. A concentration on the essential. Art asks for that too: What is the essence here? What about this subject resonates on a deeper level? Simplicity allows you to pursue your own art in your own way, rather than doing art because you think it will sell.

Simplicity of speech, of thought. Simplicity in what I say to those I love, those I encounter day-to-day. Simplicity in the way I live. Taking time to relax, to reflect. To walk in green, sweet-smelling places. Downtime. Words written not to impress, but (rather) clarity, integrity, beauty. Simple food, simple friendships, simple work done with integrity and grace.

That is my search within.